The ash tree is the most common tree in the Kent Downs but in 2012, ash dieback (caused by the fungal pathogen Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) was discovered in the U.K. and the disease has rapidly spread. Ash dieback is untreatable and could see the demise of up to 98% of these trees over the next decade.
The Ash Project is a cultural response to ash dieback, asking how we might mark and celebrate ash trees. In 2018, The Ash Project is working in partnership with Whitstable Biennale to present a series of artists’ walks. Curator Rose Thompson has devised four walks in collaboration with artists, encouraging different ways of looking at and exploring the landscape in Kent.
The first of our four Ash Walks was hosted by artist Hannah Lees. Starting at King’s Wood Car Park in Challock and ending at The Woolpack in Chilham. The walk incorporated foraging for wild garlic and dandelions, and the identification of specific plant species. Interjected with short readings covering topics from the Renaissance to realist magic.
This is the first in a series of Ash Walks taking place in 2018. Supported by Heritage Lottery Fund, Arts Council England, Kent County Council, and the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.